PLANS to publish the Michael Jackson Opus are continuing despite the singer’s death.

The book, which will include never-before-seen lyrics, drawings and pictures, is the only new official Michael Jackson publication presently approved by his estate because he had already given it his blessing before his death in June, a judge in Los Angeles has ruled.

Opus Media Group Ltd, which has put out similar productions for Manchester United and the Super Bowl, hopes to get the title out by December.

In June, Karl Fowler and Paul Murphy, supported by an investor from the Gulf, completed a management buyout of the Opus business, formerly known as Kraken Sport & Media Ltd.

Kraken Sport & Media was established as a standalone business at the end of 2005, following the set-up in Guernsey of the Kraken Group as a boutique finance company by Mr Fowler and Mr Murphy.

Opus Media Group chief executive Mr Fowler, who has lived in Guernsey for the past eight years, said the intention behind the Opus was to pay the ultimate tribute to one of the world’s greatest entertainers.

‘We know there are lyrics and notes on songs that he wrote that have never been seen before.

‘There are also some photographs taken at rehearsals for some of his pop videos that have not been made public before as well as scores of other photographs.’

Unlike other Opus titles, the Michael Jackson publication will have an unlimited print run and be priced at a discounted £109.

Other titles include Tottenham, Arsenal and Vivienne Westwood, which with a limited print run sold for up to £3,500 each.